Further powers unveiled

Tory welcome for Wales financial powers

The Welsh Conservatives have welcomed today's announcement on further changes to the financial powers of the Assembly and the Welsh Government. Shadow Finance Minister Paul Davies said:

We welcome the detail of the Silk Commission Part 1 being announced today. The move towards the implementation of taxation levers in Wales is hugely significant and allows for the first time real accountability and responsibility over decisions made by governments in Wales. We welcome the announcements with regard to business rates, a long standing policy of the Welsh Conservatives helping our businesses to become more competitive with increased flexibility. We also welcome too, the details of borrowing for infrastructure, especially with an M4 Relief Road which has already been announced.

The UK Government's decision to allow a referendum on income tax is very significant.The Welsh Conservatives are committed to being the low tax party of Wales, keeping more of people's money in their pockets and allowing us to grow the Welsh economy.

– Paul Davies, AM Shadow Finance Minister

And the leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies added:

This shows the commitment of the UK Government to Wales and I hope all parties will welcome the spirit of the announcements.We will continue to work towards the full implementation of Silk 1 and these initial steps provide a positive platform for future Welsh Governments to take responsibility and have real accountability.